JP7332768B1 - Virtual space service management device and virtual space service management method - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to manage a situation in which a user is simultaneously active in a plurality of different virtual space services. A plurality of pieces of user management information for associating user identification information for each virtual space service with management user identification information for one user registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services. a user management information storage unit that stores each of the users that differ from each other; a user activity information acquisition unit that acquires user identification information for each virtual space service for users who are currently using each virtual space service from each virtual space server; and a multiple service user information storage unit for storing multiple service user information including the number of currently used virtual space services for each user identification information. [Selection drawing] Fig. 2

Description

The present invention relates to a virtual space service management device and a virtual space service management method.

Conventionally, there is known a service system for providing a virtual reality (VR) space (virtual space) service (virtual space service) to a user (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a virtual space management server that manages a plurality of virtual space services generates a corresponding virtual space configuration based on user configuration information and virtual space configuration information acquired by an inquiry from the virtual space server. It converts the information and generates user deployment information to be sent to the virtual space server that made the inquiry. This ensures the unity of users and characters with respect to multiple different virtual space services.

JP-A-2000-285064

However, the technology described in Patent Literature 1 cannot manage situations in which a user is simultaneously active in a plurality of different virtual space services.

The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and its object is to manage situations in which a user is simultaneously active in a plurality of different virtual space services.

One aspect of the present invention is a user management system that associates user identification information for each virtual space service with administrative user identification information for one user registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services. A user management information storage unit that stores information for each of a plurality of different users, and user activity information that acquires user identification information for each virtual space service for users who are currently using each virtual space service from each virtual space server. an acquisition unit; and a multiple service user information storage unit that stores multiple service user information including the number of virtual space services currently in use for each administrative user identification information, wherein the multiple service user information includes: A virtual space service management device that can include a value of 2 or more as the number of virtual space services currently in use .
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the user activity information acquisition unit obtains, from each virtual space server, user identification information for each virtual space service and It is a virtual space service management device that acquires activity information indicating current activity content, and wherein the multiple service user information storage unit includes the activity information in the multiple service user information.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the user management information storage unit includes, in the user management information of the one user, avatar identifications of avatars that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services. A virtual space service management device that further associates information with management user identification information.
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, an avatar usage condition storage unit that stores usage conditions for avatars that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services for each administrative user identification information; A virtual space service management device, further comprising: a control unit that controls use of the avatar of the controlled user based on the activity information acquired from the virtual space server and the usage conditions corresponding to the controlled user. .
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, when the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the user to be controlled is simultaneously using is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, A virtual space service management device for continuing the use of the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service currently being used by the avatar.
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, when the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the user to be controlled is simultaneously using is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, Instead of stopping the use of the avatar of the controlled user in the currently used virtual space service, the avatar of the controlled user is started to be used in the currently unused virtual space service. , is a virtual space service management device.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, the control unit determines a virtual space service to start using the avatar of the controlled user according to the priority of each virtual space service. , is a virtual space service management device.
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, when the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using exceeds the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number, A virtual space service management device that does not allow the avatar of the controlled user to be used in a new virtual space service.
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, when the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using exceeds the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number, A virtual space service that stops using the avatar of the controlled user in a virtual space service currently using the avatar instead of starting using the avatar of the controlled user in a new virtual space service. It is a management device.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the control unit determines a virtual space service for which use of the avatar of the controlled user is to be stopped according to the priority of each virtual space service. , is a virtual space service management device.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the control unit simultaneously uses the avatar of the controlled user based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server. determining a virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar from among a plurality of different virtual space services in the above, and suspending use of the avatar of the controlled user or putting the avatar in a busy state in the determined virtual space service It is a virtual space service management device that makes
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the control unit determines a certain activity content of the controlled user based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server. A virtual space service management device that determines a virtual space service that has not changed for a period of time or more, and suspends use of the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service of the determination result.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, the control unit simultaneously uses the avatar of the controlled user based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server. when the avatar of the controlled user is suspended in the main virtual space service of the controlled user among a plurality of different virtual space services in said virtual space service other than the main virtual space service A virtual space service management device for stopping the use of the avatar of the user to be controlled.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, the control unit, based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server, in the main virtual space service of the controlled user: A virtual space service management device that, when the use of the avatar of the controlled user is started, starts using the avatar of the controlled user in a virtual space service that is not currently using the avatar.

One aspect of the present invention is a user management system that stores user identification information for each virtual space service in association with management user identification information for users registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services. an information storage unit, a usage condition storage unit that stores usage conditions for simultaneously using a plurality of different virtual space services for each administrative user identification information; a reception unit that receives a utilization request for one virtual space service using user identification information for the one virtual space service; and a plurality of virtual space services simultaneously based on the activity information acquired from each virtual space server and the usage conditions corresponding to the requesting user. and a control unit that determines whether or not the use request is accepted .
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, when the number of virtual space services being simultaneously used by the requesting user exceeds the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number, the requesting user A virtual space service management device that does not permit a user to use a new virtual space service.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, when the number of virtual space services being used simultaneously exceeds the upper limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit creates a new virtual space for the requesting user. The virtual space service management device stops the use of the virtual space service currently being used by the requesting user instead of permitting the use of the space service.
According to one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space service management device described above, the control unit determines a virtual space service whose use by the requesting user is to be suspended according to the priority of each virtual space service. It is a service management device.
One aspect of the present invention is the virtual space service management device described above, wherein the use of the virtual space service is an actual activity in the virtual space service.
In one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described virtual space service management device, inter-virtual space service association information that associates user identification information and avatar identification information for each virtual space service for each user is recorded using a blockchain. The control unit is a virtual space service management device that controls use of the user's avatar by using a smart contract that uses the inter-virtual space service association information.

One aspect of the present invention is a virtual space service management method executed by an information processing apparatus, in which one user registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services is managed for each virtual space service. a user management information storage step of storing user management information that associates the user identification information and management user identification information for each of a plurality of different users; and a user who is currently using each virtual space service from each virtual space server a user activity information acquisition step of acquiring user identification information for each virtual space service, and multiple service user information for storing multiple service user information including the number of virtual space services currently being used for each administrative user identification information and a storing step , wherein the multiple service user information can include a value of 2 or more as the number of virtual space services currently being used .

One aspect of the present invention is a virtual space service management method executed by an information processing apparatus, in which users registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services are assigned to users for each virtual space service. a user management information storage step of storing identification information in association with management user identification information; and a usage condition storage step of storing usage conditions for simultaneously using a plurality of different virtual space services for each management user identification information. a receiving step of receiving from the user a request to use one virtual space service using user identification information for at least one virtual space service out of the plurality of different virtual space services; a user activity information acquisition step of acquiring activity information indicating the current usage status of the requesting user of the usage request in the space service; and the usage conditions corresponding to the activity information acquired from each virtual space server and the requesting user. and a control step of determining whether or not the use request for simultaneously using a plurality of virtual space services is permitted based on the above.

According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain the effect of being able to manage situations in which a user is simultaneously active in a plurality of different virtual space services.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a virtual space service system according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a virtual space service management device according to an embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the user management information which concerns on one Embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of multi-service user information according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of procedures of a virtual space service management method according to an embodiment; FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a modification of the virtual space service system according to one embodiment;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a virtual space service system according to one embodiment. In FIG. 1, a virtual space service management device 1 includes a plurality of different virtual space services #1, #2, . to process information to manage The virtual space service management device 1 transmits and receives data to and from external devices such as the user device 2 and the virtual space server 3 via a communication network NW such as the Internet.

A user of the virtual space service (hereinafter simply referred to as a user) uses the user device 2 to receive provision of the virtual space service. In this embodiment, as a virtual space service, a service for displaying an avatar associated with a user's user identification information (user ID) in a virtual space is provided. An avatar is a character displayed in a virtual space as a user's alter ego. The user can use the user device 2 to perform predetermined operations such as moving and changing the orientation of his or her avatar in the virtual space.

User device 2 is, for example, a head mounted display (HMD). A head-mounted display can make a virtual space created by computer graphics (CG) look like a real space (real space) to the wearer. In addition, various sensors equipped with the head-mounted display detect movement and tilt, making it possible to make the wearer appear to be moving in the virtual space and change the direction in which objects in the virtual space are viewed. The user can perform predetermined operations such as moving and changing the orientation of his/her own avatar in the virtual space using the operation unit provided on the head-mounted display. The operation unit included in the head mounted display is, for example, configured as a separate device from the head mounted display main body, and performs short-range wireless communication with the head mounted display main body.

Note that the user device 2 may have an information processing function, a display function, an operation function, etc. for using the virtual space service. For example, the user device 2 may be a mobile terminal device such as a smart phone or a tablet computer (tablet PC). For example, the user device 2 may be a stationary personal computer.

The user device 2 transmits and receives data to and from the virtual space server 3 via the communication network NW. The virtual space server 3 executes information processing for providing virtual space services. The virtual space server 3 executes virtual space processing for generating virtual space data using computer graphics to show the virtual space to the user. The virtual space data is data that allows the wearer to see a virtual space created by computer graphics as if it were a real space by being displayed on, for example, a head-mounted display. The virtual space data is transmitted from the virtual space server 3 to the user device 2 such as a user's head-mounted display.

A user can register with a plurality of different virtual space services provided by a plurality of virtual space servers 3, respectively.

For example, user A is registered with two virtual space services #1 and #2 provided by two virtual space servers 3, respectively. Therefore, user A can use user device 2 to simultaneously use up to two virtual space services #1 and #2. User A uses the user device 2 to simultaneously display his avatar in the virtual space of virtual space service #1 and his avatar in the virtual space of virtual space service #2. be able to. User A can use the user device 2 to perform a predetermined operation such as moving or changing the direction of his or her avatar in each of the virtual spaces of the virtual space services #1 and #2 being used simultaneously. can be done.

For example, user B is registered with m virtual space services #1, #3, . . . provided by m virtual space servers 3, respectively. Therefore, user B can use user device 2 to simultaneously use up to m virtual space services #1, #3, . Then, user B can simultaneously display his/her own avatar in each virtual space of up to m virtual space services #1, #3, . User B uses the user device 2 to move or change the direction of his or her avatar on each virtual space of the maximum m virtual space services #1, #3, . . . and other predetermined operations can be performed.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the virtual space service management device 1 according to this embodiment. In FIG. 2 , the virtual space service management device 1 includes a reception section 101 , a user activity information acquisition section 102 , a control section 120 and a storage section 200 .

Each function of the virtual space service management device 1 is such that the virtual space service management device 1 includes computer hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory, and the CPU executes a computer program stored in the memory. It is realized by The virtual space service management device 1 may be configured using a general-purpose computer device, or may be configured as a dedicated hardware device. For example, the virtual space service management device 1 may be configured using a server computer connected to a communication network such as the Internet. Also, each function of the virtual space service management device 1 may be realized by cloud computing. The virtual space service management device 1 may be implemented by a single computer, or may be implemented by distributing the functions of the virtual space service management device 1 to a plurality of computers. Also, the virtual space service management device 1 may be configured to open a website using, for example, the WWW system.

The accepting unit 101 accepts a virtual space service usage request from the user by receiving the virtual space service usage request transmitted from the user device 2 of the user. A virtual space service use request is a request to use at least one virtual space service among a plurality of different virtual space services #1, #2, . . . , #n. The virtual space service use request has identification information (virtual space service ID) of the virtual space service to be used and the user ID of the requesting user in the virtual space service. A user can request the use of one virtual space service or a plurality of different virtual space services with one virtual space service use request.

The user activity information acquisition unit 102 acquires the user ID for each virtual space service from each virtual space server 3 for users who are currently using each virtual space service #1, #2, . . . , #n. A user who is currently using a virtual space service is a user who is currently logged into the virtual space server 3 that provides the virtual space service.

In addition, the user activity information acquisition unit 102 obtains user IDs and current activities for each virtual space service for users who are currently using each virtual space service from each virtual space service #1, #2, . You may acquire the 1st activity information which shows the content. For example, the first activity information is the activity content of the avatar when the user is actually operating the avatar using the user device 2 (during actual activity). As the activity content of the avatar during the actual activity, for example, the user actually operates the avatar to perform live distribution of a performance such as dance. For example, the first activity information is the activity content of the avatar when the user is not actually operating the avatar using the user device 2 (during non-actual activity). The content of the activity of the avatar during the non-real activity includes, for example, distribution of a recording of a performance such as a dance performed by the avatar.

The control unit 120 controls the use of the control target user's avatar based on the first activity information acquired from each virtual space server 3 and the first usage condition corresponding to the control target user.

Also, the user activity information acquisition unit 102 obtains the current usage status (in use) of the requesting user of the virtual space service usage request in each virtual space service from each virtual space service #1, #2, . . . , #n. (whether or not) is acquired.

The control unit 120 determines whether or not the virtual space service use request is permitted based on the second activity information of the requesting user of the virtual space service use request acquired from each virtual space server and the second usage condition corresponding to the requesting user. judge.

The storage unit 200 stores various information. The storage unit 200 stores user management information 201 , multiple service user information 202 , and usage conditions 203 .

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the user management information 201 according to this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 3, the user management information 201 stores an administrative user ID, a user ID for each virtual space service, and avatar identification information (avatar ID) for each of a plurality of different users.

The user ID for management is a user ID for user management common to all virtual space services. The user ID for management is given when the user is registered with the virtual space service management device 1 . For example, user A is given an administrative user ID "administrative user id_A". For example, user B is given an administrative user ID “administrative user id_B”.

The user ID for each virtual space service is the user ID for each virtual space service registered by the user. For example, since user A is registered with two virtual space services #1 and #2, the user IDs “SUID_1A” and “SUID_2A” for each of the two virtual space services #1 and #2 are user A is stored in the user management information 201 in association with the administrative user ID "administrative user id_A". For example, user B is registered with m virtual space services #1, #3, . , 'SUID_3B', .

Avatar ID is an avatar ID of an avatar that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services. For example, the avatar ID "avatar id_A" of an avatar that user A can simultaneously use in two virtual space services #1 and #2 is associated with the administrative user ID "administrative user id_A" of user A, and the user management information 201 is generated. stored in For example, the avatar ID "avatar id_B" of an avatar that user B can simultaneously use in m virtual space services #1, #3, . It is stored in the user management information 201.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the multiple service user information 202 according to this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4, the user ID for management, the number of currently used virtual space services, and activity information in the currently used virtual space service are stored in the multiple service user information 202 for each user.

The usage condition 203 is information having a first usage condition and a second usage condition for each user (administrative user ID). The first use condition is a use condition for a user's avatar that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services. The second use condition is a use condition for the requesting user of the virtual space service use request to simultaneously use a plurality of different virtual space services.

Next, a virtual space service management method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the procedure of the virtual space service management method according to this embodiment.

(Step S101) The user activity information acquisition unit 102 of the virtual space service management device 1 obtains virtual information about users who are currently using each of the virtual space services #1, #2, . First activity information indicating the user ID for each spatial service and the content of the current activity is acquired. The information acquisition interval of this user activity information acquisition unit 102 is a fixed interval (for example, every 5 minutes).

(Step S102) The user activity information acquisition unit 102 acquires from the user management information 201 the administrative user ID associated with the user ID for each virtual space service acquired in step S101. Next, the user activity information acquisition unit 102 counts the number of user IDs for each virtual space service acquired in step S101 for each administrative user ID acquired from the user management information 201 . Next, the user activity information acquisition unit 102 records the number of user IDs for each virtual space service in the multiple service user information 202 as the number of virtual space services currently being used for each administrative user ID. As a result, in the multiple service user information 202, the number of virtual space services currently being used by each user is updated at the information acquisition interval of the user activity information acquisition unit 102 (for example, every 5 minutes).

Also, the user activity information acquisition unit 102 records the first activity information acquired together with the user ID for each virtual space service in step S101 in the multiple service user information 202 in association with the corresponding administrative user ID. As a result, in the multiple service user information 202, the first activity information of each user is updated at an information acquisition interval (for example, every 5 minutes) of the user activity information acquisition unit 102. FIG.

(Steps S103 and S104) The control unit 120 of the virtual space service management device 1 controls the control target user based on the first activity information recorded in the multiple service user information 202 and the first usage conditions corresponding to the control target user. Controls the use of user avatars. The controlled users may be all users registered in the virtual space service management device 1, or may be some users. For example, a controlled user may be a user currently using a predetermined number of virtual space services. Specifically, the user to be controlled may be a user whose number of currently used virtual space services in the multiple service user information 202 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

Here, an example is given and demonstrated about the avatar usage control method which concerns on this embodiment.

(Example 1 of avatar use control method)
In Example 1 of the avatar usage control method, the first usage condition is the lower limit number of simultaneous usages of the virtual space service. The virtual space service simultaneous use lower limit number of the first use condition is the lower limit number of the virtual space service numbers that are simultaneously using the avatars of the controlled user. Example 1 of the avatar use control method is applied when it is necessary that the avatar of the user to be controlled is simultaneously used in at least the virtual space service simultaneous use minimum number or more.

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using from the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202 . Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the lower limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the first usage rule of the user to be controlled. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 prohibits the use of the avatar in the virtual space service currently using the avatar of the controlled user. continue. For example, when the specified number of virtual space services is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services, the control unit 120 prevents the controlled user from logging out of the virtual space service currently using the avatar of the controlled user. Control information is transmitted to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct it. As a result, since the controlled user cannot log out from the virtual space service, the use of the controlled user's avatar is continued in the virtual space service. is preserved.

(Example 2 of avatar usage control method)
In Example 2 of the avatar use control method, the first use condition is the lower limit number of simultaneous uses of the virtual space service, as in Example 1 of the avatar use control method described above. Example 2 of the avatar usage control method requires that the avatar of the user to be controlled is simultaneously used in at least the lower limit number of virtual space service simultaneous usages or more, as in the above example 1 of the avatar usage control method. applied in such cases.

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using from the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202 . Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the lower limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the first usage rule of the user to be controlled. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 prohibits the use of the avatar in the virtual space service currently using the avatar of the controlled user. Instead of stopping, use of the avatar of the controlled user is started in the virtual space service that is not currently using the avatar. For example, when the specified number of virtual space services is less than the lower limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services, the control unit 120 logs out the controlled user from the virtual space service currently using the avatar of the controlled user. In addition to sending the control information to the virtual space server 3 to instruct the virtual space server 3, the control information is sent to the corresponding virtual space server 3 so that the controlled user is logged in to the virtual space service to which the controlled user is not currently logged in. instruct. As a result, the controlled user is logged out of the currently used virtual space service, but the controlled user's avatar is simultaneously logged out by logging in to another virtual space service that the controlled user is not currently using. The number of virtual space services in use is maintained.

It should be noted that the control unit 120 may determine a virtual space service to start using the avatar of the controlled user according to the priority of each virtual space service. The priority of each virtual space service is set in the virtual space service management device 1 in advance.

(Example 3 of avatar use control method)
In Example 3 of the avatar usage control method, the first usage condition is the maximum number of simultaneous usages of the virtual space service. The virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit of the first use condition is the upper limit of the number of virtual space services currently being used simultaneously by the avatar of the controlled user. When the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number is set to 1, the avatar of the controlled user is prohibited from being used simultaneously in a plurality of virtual space services. On the other hand, if the maximum number of virtual space services that can be used simultaneously is set to 2 or more, the avatar of the controlled user can use multiple virtual space services at the same time, but the number of virtual space services that can be used at the same time is limited. Example 3 of the avatar use control method is applied when it is necessary to limit the number of virtual space services simultaneously used by the avatars of the control target user to the upper limit of simultaneous use of virtual space services or less.

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using from the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202 . Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the upper limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the first usage rule of the user to be controlled. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 does not permit the controlled user's avatar to use the new virtual space service. For example, if the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of virtual space services that can be used simultaneously, the control unit 120 prevents the controlled user from logging in to other virtual space services that the controlled user is not currently using. , transmits control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 and instructs it. As a result, since the controlled user cannot log in to a new virtual space service, it is possible to prevent the number of virtual space services simultaneously using the avatar of the controlled user from increasing any further.

(Example 4 of avatar use control method)
In Example 4 of the avatar usage control method, the first usage condition is the upper limit of simultaneous usage of the virtual space service, as in Example 3 of the avatar usage control method described above. Example 4 of avatar usage control method is similar to example 3 of avatar usage control method described above. Applied when required.

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is simultaneously using from the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202 . Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the upper limit number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the first usage rule of the user to be controlled. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 causes the avatar of the controlled user to start using a new virtual space service. , suspends the use of the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service currently using the avatar. For example, when the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 causes the controlled user to log in to another virtual space service to which the controlled user is not currently logged in. Control information is sent to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct it, and the control information is sent to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to log out the controlled user from the virtual space service currently using the avatar of the controlled user. to indicate. As a result, the controlled user logs in to a new virtual space service, but by logging out of the controlled user's current virtual space service, the controlled user's avatar is simultaneously used in the virtual space currently being used. You can prevent the number of services from increasing any further.

Note that the control unit 120 may determine a virtual space service for which use of the controlled user's avatar is to be stopped according to the priority of each virtual space service. The priority of each virtual space service is set in the virtual space service management device 1 in advance.

(Example 5 of avatar use control method)
In Example 5 of the avatar usage control method, the first usage condition is a virtual space service that allows avatars to be operated. Example 5 of the avatar use control method is applied when it is necessary to limit the use of avatars only to virtual space services in which the user to be controlled can operate the avatars.

Based on the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202, the control unit 120 selects the avatar of the controlled user among the plurality of different virtual space services currently using the avatar of the controlled user at the same time. to determine which virtual space service is inoperable. For example, the control unit 120 prevents the controlled user from operating the avatar in other virtual space services when the controlled user is in a real activity such as live distribution in one virtual space service. I judge. Next, as a result of the determination, the control unit 120 suspends the use of the controlled user's avatar or places it in a busy state in the virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar. For example, the control unit 120 transmits control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct the controlled user to log out of the virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar. As a result, the use of the controlled user's avatar is suspended in the virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar. For example, the control unit 120 transmits control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 and instructs the virtual space server 3 to put the controlled user in a busy state in a virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar. As a result, the avatar of the controlled user becomes busy in the virtual space service in which the controlled user cannot operate the avatar. In the busy state, communication functions, such as talking through an avatar, are temporarily disabled.

(Example 6 of avatar use control method)
In example 6 of the avatar use control method, the first use condition is a virtual space service in which the content of activity changes within a certain period of time. Example 6 of the avatar use control method is applied to dealing with a case where the user to be controlled is left logged in to the virtual space service even though the user is not actually using the virtual space service.

Based on the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service user information 202, the control unit 120 determines a virtual space service in which the activity of the controlled user has not changed for a certain period of time. For example, the control unit 120 may determine a virtual space service in which the user to be controlled has not performed the actual activity of the avatar for a certain period of time. For example, the control unit 120 may determine a virtual space service in which the user to be controlled has not performed the real activity and non-real activity of the avatar for a certain period of time. Next, as a result of the determination, the control unit 120 suspends the use of the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service for which there is no change in the activity of the controlled user for a certain period of time or longer. For example, the control unit 120 sends control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 and instructs the virtual space server 3 to log out the controlled user from the virtual space service whose activities of the controlled user have not changed for a certain period of time. . As a result, the use of the controlled user's avatar is suspended in the virtual space service in which the contents of the controlled user's activities have not changed for a certain period of time or longer.

(Example 7 of avatar use control method)
In example 7 of the avatar use control method, the first use condition is that the main virtual space service is used. Example 7 of the avatar use control method is applied when it is desired to restrict the use of other virtual space services only when the controlled user is using the main virtual space service. The main virtual space service is set in advance in the virtual space service management device 1 for each user.

Based on the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service using user information 202, the control unit 120 selects the controlled user's avatar among a plurality of different virtual space services simultaneously using the controlled user's avatar. It is determined whether the avatar of the controlled user has been suspended in the main virtual space service. For example, the control unit 120 determines whether the controlled user has logged out of the main virtual space service. Next, if the control target user's avatar is suspended in the main virtual space service of the controlled user as a result of the determination, the control unit 120 controls the control target user in another virtual space service other than the main virtual space service. stop using the avatar of For example, the control unit 120 transmits control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct the controlled user to log out from virtual space services other than the controlled user's main virtual space service. As a result, when the use of the controlled user's avatar in the main virtual space service of the controlled user is suspended, the use of the controlled user's avatar in virtual space services other than the main virtual space service is also suspended.

The target virtual space services for which the use of the controlled user's avatar is to be stopped may be all or some of the multiple different virtual space services in which the controlled user's avatar is currently being used. may be a virtual space service of The part of the virtual space services may be specified by the controlled user in advance, or may be specified by the controlled user when the use is suspended. In addition, the control unit 120 may select a predetermined number of virtual space services from those that the control target user has used the least in the past with the main virtual space service.

(Example 8 of avatar use control method)
In example 8 of the avatar use control method, the first use condition is that the main virtual space service is used, as in example 7 of the avatar use control method described above. Example 8 of the avatar use control method is applied when the user to be controlled is using the main virtual space service and wants to use other virtual space services as well. The main virtual space service is set in advance in the virtual space service management device 1 for each user.

Based on the first activity information of the controlled user recorded in the multiple service user information 202, the control unit 120 determines whether the avatar of the controlled user has started using the main virtual space service of the controlled user. For example, the control unit 120 determines whether the controlled user has logged into the main virtual space service. Next, if the result of the determination is that the avatar of the controlled user has started to be used in the main virtual space service of the controlled user, the control unit 120 determines whether the avatar of the controlled user is currently not being used in the virtual space service. Start using avatars. For example, the control unit 120 transmits control information to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct the controlled user to log in to a virtual space service to which the controlled user has not logged in. As a result, when the avatar of the controlled user starts to be used in the main virtual space service of the controlled user, the avatar of the controlled user also starts to be used in virtual space services other than the main virtual space service.

The target virtual space service for which use of the controlled user's avatar is to be started may be all of the virtual space services that do not use the controlled user's avatar, or may be a part of the virtual space services. It can be a service. Some of the virtual space services may be specified in advance by the controlled user, or may be specified by the controlled user at the start of use. In addition, the control unit 120 may select a predetermined number of virtual space services from among those that have been used more frequently with the main virtual space service in the past by the user to be controlled.

The above is the description of the example of the avatar usage control method according to the present embodiment.

Returning to FIG.
(Step S200) The receiving unit 101 of the virtual space service management apparatus 1 receives the virtual space service use request transmitted from the user's user device 2, and thereby requests the user (requesting user) to use the virtual space service. Accept requests. A virtual space service use request is a request to use at least one virtual space service among a plurality of different virtual space services #1, #2, . . . , #n. A virtual space service use request has the virtual space service ID of the virtual space service to be used and the user ID of the requesting user in the virtual space service.

(Step S201) The user activity information acquisition unit 102 of the virtual space service management device 1 acquires the current usage status of the requesting user in each virtual space service from each virtual space service #1, #2, . . . , #n. Acquire the second activity information indicating (whether in use or not).

(Step S202) The control unit 120 of the virtual space service management device 1, based on the second activity information of the requesting user acquired from each virtual space server and the second usage conditions corresponding to the requesting user, Determines whether a virtual space service use request is possible.

(Step S203) Based on the result of the determination, the control unit 120 sends control information indicating permission or non-permission of use of the virtual space service of the requesting user to the virtual space server 3 corresponding to the virtual space service use request. to send.

(Step S204) The control unit 120 responds to the user device 2 of the requesting user with the determination result of whether or not the virtual space service use request is accepted (virtual space service use response).

Here, an example of the virtual space service usage control method according to the present embodiment will be described.

(Example 1 of virtual space service usage control method)
In Example 1 of the virtual space service usage control method, the second usage condition is the maximum number of simultaneous usages of the virtual space service. The virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit of the second usage condition is the upper limit of the number of virtual space services currently being used by the controlled user at the same time. Example 1 of the virtual space service usage control method is applied when it is necessary to limit the number of virtual space services simultaneously used by the requesting user to the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services or less.

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services being simultaneously used by the requesting user from the second activity information of the requesting user. Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the maximum number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the second usage condition of the requesting user. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 does not permit the requesting user to use the new virtual space service. For example, when the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of virtual space services that can be used simultaneously, the control unit 120 prevents the requesting user from logging in to the virtual space service that the requesting user requests to use. Control information is transmitted to the virtual space server 3 to instruct it. As a result, since the requesting user cannot log in to the virtual space service that the requesting user requests to use, it is possible to prevent the number of virtual space services being simultaneously used by the requesting user from increasing any further.

(Example 2 of virtual space service usage control method)
In the example 2 of the virtual space service usage control method, the second usage condition is the upper limit of simultaneous usage of the virtual space service, as in the example 1 of the virtual space service usage control method described above. Example 2 of virtual space service usage control method is similar to example 1 of virtual space service usage control method described above, and limits the number of virtual space services simultaneously used by the requesting user to no more than the maximum number of virtual space service simultaneous usage. Applied when it is necessary to

The control unit 120 identifies the number of virtual space services being simultaneously used by the requesting user from the second activity information of the requesting user. Next, the control unit 120 compares the specified number of virtual space services with the maximum number of simultaneous use of the virtual space services indicated in the second usage condition of the requesting user. As a result of the comparison, if the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the maximum number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit 120 allows the requesting user to use the new virtual space service instead of allowing the requesting user to use the new virtual space service. To stop the use of the virtual space service currently being used by the user. For example, when the specified number of virtual space services exceeds the upper limit of simultaneous use of the virtual space service, the control unit 120 causes the requesting user to log in to the virtual space service that the requesting user requests to use. Control information is transmitted to the space server 3 to instruct it, and the control information is transmitted to the corresponding virtual space server 3 to instruct the requesting user to log out from the virtual space service currently used by the requesting user. As a result, the requesting user logs into a new virtual space service, but the requesting user logs out of the virtual space service currently being used by the requesting user. can be prevented from increasing further.

Note that the control unit 120 may determine a virtual space service for which use by the requesting user is to be stopped according to the priority of each virtual space service. The priority of each virtual space service is set in the virtual space service management device 1 in advance.

In Examples 1 and 2 of the virtual space service usage control method described above, the use of the virtual space service may be limited to actual activities in the virtual space service. In this case, non-real activities such as video recording distribution are not subject to the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit.

The above is the description of the example of the avatar usage control method according to the present embodiment.

Next, a modification according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a modification of the virtual space service system according to this embodiment. In FIG. 6, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

The virtual space service system shown in FIG. 6 uses the blockchain service system 4 . The virtual space service management device 1 transmits and receives data to and from the blockchain service system 4 via the communication network NW. The blockchain service system 4 provides services using the blockchain 5 . Blockchain service system 4 manages various information using blockchain 5, for example. For example, the blockchain service system 4 uses the blockchain 5 to manage NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens).

In this modification, inter-virtual space service association information that associates the user ID and avatar ID of each virtual space service for each user is recorded in advance using the blockchain 5 . The control unit 120 of the virtual space service management device 1 controls the use of each user's avatar using a smart contract that utilizes the inter-virtual space service association information. The smart contract controls the use of each user's avatar by the above-described avatar use control method based on the first activity information acquired from each virtual space server 3 and the first usage conditions corresponding to each user. Preconfigured.

According to the embodiment described above, it is possible to obtain the effect of being able to manage situations in which a user is simultaneously active in a plurality of different virtual space services. As a result, when a user simultaneously uses a plurality of different virtual space services, it is possible to appropriately control the use. For example, in a usage form such as live distribution where the uniqueness of a user's avatar is emphasized, if the same user's avatar as the live distribution is active in a virtual space service other than the virtual space service that is performing live distribution, A user watching the activity of the avatar in the live distribution may feel uncomfortable. According to this embodiment, such activities of avatars can be managed and controlled appropriately.

As a result, for example, it is possible to improve the overall service quality of virtual space service systems, so it is important to realize Goal 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) led by the United Nations. It will be possible to contribute to the promotion of industrialization that is possible and the expansion of innovation.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and design changes and the like are also included within the scope of the present invention.

Alternatively, a computer program for realizing the functions of the devices described above may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded in the recording medium may be read and executed by the computer system. Note that the “computer system” referred to here may include hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The "computer system" also includes the home page providing environment (or display environment) if the WWW system is used.
In addition, "computer-readable recording medium" includes writable nonvolatile memories such as flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, ROMs and flash memories, portable media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), and computer system built-in media. A storage device such as a hard disk that

Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" means a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)), which holds the program for a certain period of time, is also included.
Further, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing this program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in a transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.
Further, the program may be for realizing part of the functions described above. Further, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Virtual space service management apparatus 2... User device 3... Virtual space server 4... Block chain service system 5... Block chain 101... Reception part 102... User activity information acquisition part 120... Control part 200 ... storage unit, NW ... communication network

Claims (22)

For one user registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services, user management information for associating user identification information for each virtual space service with administrative user identification information is distributed to a plurality of different virtual space servers. a user management information storage unit that stores information for each user;
a user activity information acquisition unit that acquires user identification information for each virtual space service for users currently using each virtual space service from each virtual space server;
a multiple service user information storage unit that stores multiple service user information including the number of currently used virtual space services for each administrative user identification information;
with
The multiple service user information may include a value of 2 or more as the number of virtual space services currently in use,
Virtual space service management device. The user activity information acquisition unit acquires, from each virtual space server, user identification information for each virtual space service and activity information indicating current activity details for users who are currently using each virtual space service,
wherein the multiple service user information storage unit includes the activity information in the multiple service user information;
The virtual space service management device according to claim 1. The user management information storage unit further associates, in the user management information of the one user, avatar identification information of avatars that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services with administrative user identification information.
3. The virtual space service management device according to claim 2. an avatar usage condition storage unit that stores usage conditions for avatars that can be used simultaneously in a plurality of different virtual space services for each administrative user identification information;
a control unit that controls the use of the avatar of the controlled user based on the activity information acquired from each virtual space server and the usage conditions corresponding to the controlled user;
4. The virtual space service management device according to claim 3. When the number of virtual space services simultaneously using the avatar of the controlled user is below a lower limit number of virtual space service simultaneous use, the control unit controls the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service currently being used. continue to use the avatar;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. When the number of virtual space services simultaneously using the avatar of the controlled user is below a lower limit number of virtual space service simultaneous use, the control unit controls the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service currently being used. instead of stopping the use of the avatar, start using the avatar of the controlled user in a virtual space service that is not currently using the avatar;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. The control unit determines a virtual space service to start using the avatar of the controlled user according to the priority of each virtual space service.
7. The virtual space service management device according to claim 6. When the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is being used simultaneously exceeds an upper limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit allows the avatar of the controlled user to be used in a new virtual space service. do not allow
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. When the number of virtual space services in which the avatar of the controlled user is being used simultaneously exceeds an upper limit number of simultaneous use of virtual space services, the control unit allows the avatar of the controlled user to be used in a new virtual space service. instead of starting the avatar of the controlled user in the virtual space service currently using the avatar,
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. The control unit determines a virtual space service for stopping the use of the avatar of the controlled user according to the priority of each virtual space service.
The virtual space service management device according to claim 9. Based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server, the control unit determines whether the controlled user among a plurality of different virtual space services simultaneously using the avatar of the controlled user is the Determining a virtual space service for which the avatar cannot be operated, and suspending the use of the avatar of the controlled user or placing it in a busy state in the determined virtual space service;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. Based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server, the control unit determines a virtual space service in which the activity content of the controlled user does not change for a certain period of time or more, and outputs the determination result. suspending the use of the controlled user's avatar in the virtual space service;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. Based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server, the control unit controls, among a plurality of different virtual space services simultaneously using the avatar of the controlled user, when the avatar of the controlled user is suspended in the main virtual space service, suspending the use of the avatar of the controlled user in a virtual space service other than the main virtual space service;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. When the avatar of the controlled user starts using the main virtual space service of the controlled user based on the activity information of the controlled user acquired from each virtual space server, the control unit controls the Starting to use the avatar of the controlled user in a virtual space service that is not currently using the avatar;
5. The virtual space service management device according to claim 4. a user management information storage unit that stores user identification information for each virtual space service associated with administrative user identification information for users registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services;
a usage condition storage unit that stores usage conditions for simultaneously using a plurality of different virtual space services for each administrative user identification information;
a receiving unit that receives from the user a request to use one virtual space service using user identification information for at least one of the plurality of different virtual space services;
a user activity information acquisition unit that acquires, from each virtual space server, activity information indicating the current usage status of the requesting user of the usage request in each virtual space service;
a control unit that determines, based on the activity information acquired from each virtual space server and the usage conditions corresponding to the requesting user , whether or not the usage request for simultaneously using a plurality of virtual space services is permitted;
A virtual space service management device comprising The control unit does not permit the requesting user to use a new virtual space service when the number of virtual space services being simultaneously used by the requesting user exceeds the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number.
The virtual space service management device according to claim 15. When the number of virtual space services being used simultaneously exceeds the virtual space service simultaneous use upper limit number, the control unit allows the requesting user to use a new virtual space service instead of allowing the requesting user to use the current virtual space service. Stop the use of the virtual space service in use,
The virtual space service management device according to claim 15. The control unit determines a virtual space service whose use by the requesting user is to be stopped according to the priority of each virtual space service.
The virtual space service management device according to claim 17. The use of the virtual space service is the actual activity in the virtual space service,
A virtual space service management device according to any one of claims 16 to 18. Inter-virtual space service association information that associates user identification information and avatar identification information for each virtual space service for each user is recorded using a blockchain,
The control unit controls the use of the user's avatar using a smart contract that utilizes the inter-virtual space service association information.
A virtual space service management device according to any one of claims 4 to 18. A virtual space service management method executed by an information processing device, comprising:
For one user registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services, user management information for associating user identification information for each virtual space service with administrative user identification information is distributed to a plurality of different virtual space servers. a step of storing user management information for each user;
a user activity information acquisition step of acquiring user identification information for each virtual space service from each virtual space server for users who are currently using each virtual space service;
a multiple service user information storage step of storing multiple service user information including the number of currently used virtual space services for each management user identification information;
including
The multiple service user information may include a value of 2 or more as the number of virtual space services currently in use,
Virtual space service management method. A virtual space service management method executed by an information processing device, comprising:
a user management information storage step of storing user identification information for each virtual space service associated with administrative user identification information for users registered in a plurality of virtual space servers that respectively provide a plurality of different virtual space services;
a usage condition storage step of storing usage conditions for simultaneously using a plurality of different virtual space services for each administrative user identification information;
a receiving step of receiving, from the user, a request to use one virtual space service using user identification information for at least one of the plurality of different virtual space services;
a user activity information obtaining step of obtaining, from each virtual space server, activity information indicating the current usage status of the requesting user of the usage request in each virtual space service;
a control step of determining whether or not the use request for simultaneous use of a plurality of virtual space services is permitted based on the activity information obtained from each virtual space server and the use conditions corresponding to the requesting user;
virtual space service management method including

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